Definition

The end part of a long bone that is initially separated from the main bone by cartilage but eventually fuses with it as the bone matures.

Example

The doctor explained that the epiphysis is crucial for bone growth during childhood.

Conversation

I was reading about how bones grow, and I came across the term epiphysis.

Oh really? What does it mean exactly?

It's basically the end of a long bone that eventually fuses with the main part.

That makes sense! I didn't know bones had such interesting parts.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Epiphysis → It is formed from "epi-" (meaning upon or over) and "physis" (from Greek "phusis", meaning growth or nature). The term refers to the growth plate located at the end of long bones, which is situated upon the main body of the bone.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'upon' ('epi-') the main part of a bone, which is where growth ('physis') occurs. This helps you remember that 'epiphysis' refers to the growth area at the end of bones.

Visually Confused Words